| Gupteshwar Mahadev | |
|---|---|
| | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Hinduism |
| Deity | Shiva |
| Festivals | Mahashivaratri |
| Location | |
| Location | Bihar |
| Country | India |
Location in Bihar | |
| Coordinates | 24°45′58″N83°48′26″E / 24.76603°N 83.80725°E |
| Architecture | |
| Type | Cave Temple |
| Temple | 1 |
Gupta Dham, also known as Gupteshwar Cave Temple, [1] is a natural cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a pilgrim site located in the Kaimur range in Rohtas district of Bihar. [2] The cave is known for a natural rock formation resembling a Shivling called Gupteshwar Mahadev. [3] [4]
The cave lies at the foot of the eastern flank of the Chunda (also known as Goptha, Gupta, Gupteswar) [5] hill in the Rohtas Plateau, the most eastern extension of the Kaimur Range. [6]
The Gupteshwar Cave Temple is traditionally linked to the legend of Bhasmasura, a demon who misused a blessings granted by Lord Vishnu. According to local folklore, Lord Shiva intervened to protect Vishnu and killed Bhasmasura at this site, giving the cave its religious significance. [7]